Pain relievers, such as nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (such as ibuprofen)

You also may need:

Crutches to walk until the swelling and pain get better

Brace to give your knee some stability

Physical therapy to help improve joint motion and leg strength

Surgery to rebuild the ACL

Some people can live and function normally with a torn ACL. However, most people complain that their knee is unstable and may "give out" with physical activity. Unrepaired ACL tears can lead to further knee damage. You are also less likely to return to the same level of sports without the ACL.

Do Not

Do NOT move your knee if you have had a serious injury.

Use a splint to keep the knee straight until you see a doctor.

Do NOT return to play or other activities until you have been treated.

When to Contact a Medical Professional

Call your provider right away if you have a serious knee injury.

Get immediate medical attention if the foot is cool and blue after a knee injury. This means that the knee joint may be dislocated, and blood vessels to the foot may be injured. This is a medical emergency.

Prevention

Use proper techniques when playing sports or exercising. Some college sports programs teach athletes how to reduce stress placed on the ACL. This involves a series of warm up exercises and jumping drills.

The use of knee braces during vigorous athletic activity (such as football) is controversial. It has not been shown to reduce the number of knee injuries, but not specifically ACL injuries.